"Designer Marie Flanigan prepares her home for the back-to-school season by implementing design choices that facilitate a seamless transition into the bustling daily routine"

Marie Flanigan, a Houston-based interior designer, prepares her home for the back-to-school season with a blend of practicality and style. At the start of August, she organises her support spaces, including the sunroom, pantry, and mudroom, to ensure a smooth transition into the new academic year.

The sunroom, which doubles as a catch-all space for school and art supplies, charging stations, backpacks, and other odds and ends, is a designated area for school necessities. Marie Flanigan advises investing in good storage solutions that are both durable and accessible, considering the high-traffic nature of school-related items in her home.

To help manage the clutter of bags, books, and shoes, Marie suggests using a trolley for each child. Attractive baskets are employed for shoe storage in the entryway, while a versatile storage piece with an all-over woven detail can be used for shoes in the entryway or spare bedding at the end of the bed. A chic, mobile laundry basket can be used for towels or toy storage in various parts of the house.

Marie Flanigan finds it essential to edit what is not needed, make space for what's coming, and keep her home spaces functional and inviting, especially for her children. Each child in her family has a designated space for post-school activity.

Family dinner is a priority for Marie, and she sets the table complete with lit LED candles every night to make the moment feel special. Her children's bedrooms are equipped with cozy chairs and floor lamps for reading, and touches like fresh flowers or a cozy throw are added to make the busy days feel grounded.

As the school year approaches, Marie implements routines for her family. She encourages her children to establish their own post-school routines, such as unpacking their bags, hanging up their coats, and storing their school supplies in their designated spaces.

Despite the impending back-to-school chaos, Marie Flanigan looks forward to the cooler Houston temperatures of fall. By organising her home and implementing practical yet stylish solutions, she is well-prepared for the new academic year.